Lt Cdr Dharmendra Singh Chouhan

Lieutenant Commander Dharmendra Singh Chouhan hailed from Ratlam city in Madhya Pradesh. After completing his engineering degree, he joined the Indian Navy in 2013. From an early age, he was known for his sharp intellect and disciplined approach. A bright student, he performed exceptionally well in academics and actively participated in sports, reflecting his all-around personality. These qualities later shaped him into a dedicated and professional naval officer. After joining the Navy, he evolved into a committed soldier who took immense pride in his uniform and responsibilities. Soldiering was not just a profession for him, but a passion that was evident in his conduct, dedication, and unwavering sense of duty at all times.

By 2019, he had completed nearly six years of distinguished service and had gained valuable experience in various naval operations. During this period, he earned the respect of his seniors and peers for his professionalism, sincerity, and calm demeanour. On 10 March 2019, he married Ms Karuna Singh in a joyful ceremony attended by family and close friends. However, the demands of service soon called him back to duty. After spending only about fifteen days with his wife, he returned to his operational responsibilities, placing service to the nation above personal comfort, a reflection of his deep commitment to duty.

INS Vikramaditya fire: 26 Apr 2019

In April 2019, Lt Cdr Dharmendra Singh Chouhan was serving aboard INS Vikramaditya, the aircraft carrier and flagship of the Indian Navy. Commissioned into the Indian Navy in 2013, INS Vikramaditya was among the most potent naval platforms, manned by around 110 officers and nearly 1,500 sailors. The massive warship comprised 21 decks and functioned as a floating airbase capable of sustained maritime operations. On 26 April 2019, a serious emergency unfolded when a blast occurred in one of the steam pipes in the engine room. The explosion damaged a fuel pipe, triggering a fire on Deck 3, which affected two compartments and posed a significant threat to personnel, machinery, and the safety of the ship. As soon as the fire was detected, the firefighting crew acted swiftly and cut off the fuel supply to prevent the blaze from spreading further. Sensing the gravity of the situation, Lt Cdr Chouhan immediately sprang into action. Displaying exceptional composure and leadership, he began directing his team to contain the fire and safeguard both personnel and critical equipment. Leading from the front, he personally supervised the firefighting efforts, moving rapidly between positions and ensuring coordinated action in the smoke-filled and hazardous environment.

During the intense firefighting operation, Lt Cdr Chouhan entered a smoke-filled compartment to tackle the fire at close quarters. In the process, he was suddenly struck by a powerful jet of extremely hot steam released inside the compartment. The blast of steam caused severe burn injuries and rendered him unconscious. Despite immediate efforts, he later succumbed to his injuries, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty while attempting to save the ship and his fellow sailors. Lt Cdr Dharmendra Singh Chouhan was a courageous officer and an inspiring leader who embodied the finest traditions of the Indian Navy. He led from the front, placing duty and the safety of others above his own life. At the young age of 30, he laid down his life in the service of the nation.

Lt Cdr Dharmendra Singh Chouhan is survived by his mother, Smt. Tama Kanwar, his wife, Smt. Karuna Chouhan and his sister. Following in the footsteps of her husband and carrying forward his legacy, Smt. Karuna Chouhan faced the tragedy with remarkable courage and resolve. Taking it in her stride, she went on to join the Indian Army as a commissioned officer and is currently serving the nation.